Man who ran length of Africa teases new challenge

After complications with visas, health scares, geopolitical issues and an armed robbery, Russell Cook, nicknamed “Hardest Geezer”, crossed the finish line in Tunisia on 7 April after 352 days.

The 27-year-old, from Worthing, West Sussex, has raised more than £1m ($1.27m) for charity.

Two months after finishing the mammoth challenge, Mr Cook has teased an imminent new challenge.

“Just about starting to settle back into normal life in the UK, so there is only one thing for it – back on road,” he said on X, formerly Twitter.

“1s & 2s till the end of time baby. International tarmac network is trembling in its boots once again. Mission starts next week, announcement soon. Buzzing.”

The details of his challenge have not been confirmed.

Russell Cook began his extreme challenge at South Africa's most southerly point on 22 April 2023

Mr Cook’s extreme challenge began at South Africa's most southerly point on 22 April 2023, and finished more than 10,190 miles (16,400km) north in Tunisia.

He had originally planned to complete the equivalent of 360 marathons in 240 days but extended the challenge due to complications.

Before he set off, he said he hoped to look back at his life and have no regrets after admitting to struggling with his mental health, gambling and drinking.

Mr Cook, who was raising money for The Running Charity and Sandblast, also ran the London Marathon in April and is due to run the Sahara Marathon next year.

-bbc